There are only five days left until summer 2017 officially begins and water sports are ramping up! #SaltLife enthusiasts know how much fun jet skiing is, but it’s also one of the most dangerous water activities to partake in. It’s important for riders to stay safe while cruising the open seas, so to reduce the likelihood of sustaining an injury, take a few extra safety precautions this year.
Read on for our tips for staying safe while riding your jet ski this summer.
Wear safety devices.
The majority of jet ski drownings occur because the rider is not wearing a lifejacket. Be sure to not only wear a lifejacket while riding, but to make sure it’s the proper size. A jacket that’s too small can hinder its ability to keep you afloat in an emergency.
Make sure your jet ski is running properly.
Just like a car, it’s necessary to maintain your jet ski. Often times, accidents occur due to equipment failure. Thoroughly check your cables, fuel levels, and oil levels. In addition, start your engine on land before launch.
Use a jet ski lift.
Many jet ski owners tend to let their crafts float in the water when they’re not in use. This can cause marine build up to damage the inner workings of the engine causing it to fail — usually at the most inopportune time. Opt to use a jet ski lift instead.
Never drink and jet ski.
Operating a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol is highly dangerous. The effects of booze are worsened in extreme sun and wind, so drinking severely increases your odds of being involved in an accident.
Cruise at a reasonable speed.
This is a no-brainer. Always operate your jet ski at a safe speed. This should be practiced in both congested areas AND while cruising!
Have you been involved in a jet ski accident? The experienced attorneys at Levine and Wisscan help YOU receive the compensation you deserve. For more information and a FREE consultation contact ustoday at 1-888-GOT-HURT.